Ocular Ointment Lipid Composition for Non-Stinging Barrier Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moisturizers are unsuitable for the sensitive ocular region due to harsh ingredients, and there is a need for a composition that forms a protective, occlusive layer while delivering moisturizing emollients to relieve dry skin discomfort without causing irritation.
Innovation Solution
A topical ointment comprising a dermatologically acceptable vehicle with a lipid mixture of sphingolipids, oils, and hydrophilic solvents, formulated to create a protective barrier and deliver moisturizing agents effectively to the eyelid and ocular region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If hydrocortisone cream or other harsh moisturizers are used to treat dry skin, then moisturizing effect is improved, but skin irritation and sensitivity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters by replacing harsh ingredients (hydrocortisone, fragrances, dyes) with gentler alternatives specifically suited for ocular region skin. The formulation uses petrolatum-based vehicles with carefully selected concentrations of emollients and humectants that provide moisturizing effects without causing irritation to sensitive eyelid skin.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a locally optimized formulation specifically designed for the unique characteristics of ocular region skin. The composition addresses the specific needs of thin, sensitive eyelid skin by incorporating ingredients that provide occlusive protection and hydration without the harsh effects of general-purpose moisturizers, making it suitable for this particular anatomical location.
2Quantity of substance
If a protective occlusive layer is formed to prevent moisture loss, then moisture retention is improved, but ingredient penetration and skin breathing may be restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies occlusive ingredients (petrolatum, oils) at optimized concentrations that provide sufficient moisture retention without excessive occlusion. The formulation balances occlusive agents with breathable components to maintain adequate protection while allowing minimal skin respiration, avoiding the complete sealing effect of heavy ointments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite formulation combining multiple ingredients with different properties: occlusives (petrolatum, oils) for moisture retention, emollients for skin softening, and humectants for water attraction. This composite approach provides balanced protection that retains moisture while maintaining some skin permeability through the synergistic interaction of different material components.
3Loss of time
If fast-acting ingredients are used to quickly relieve dry skin discomfort, then symptom relief speed is improved, but skin sensitivity and potential stinging worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses gentle intermediary ingredients that mediate between the need for quick relief and skin sensitivity. Ingredients like panthenol and phytosphingosine provide soothing and barrier-repair effects that act relatively quickly without causing stinging, serving as intermediaries that deliver benefits while protecting sensitive ocular skin from irritation.
4Reliability
If the eyelid skin is treated with strong active ingredients, then treatment efficacy is improved, but skin damage and irritation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple gentle ingredients working together rather than relying on a single strong active ingredient. This multi-component approach uses several milder substances (emollients, humectants, barrier ingredients) that collectively provide treatment efficacy without the skin damage risk associated with potent single-ingredient treatments on sensitive eyelid skin.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The ointment provides a soothing, moisturizing effect by forming a protective layer that reduces dryness, irritation, and inflammation, maintaining skin health without stinging or stripping the skin.
Implementation Method 1
the composition forms a protective, occlusive layer
Implementation Method 2
delivering moisturizing emollients
Data Source
AI summary
A composition for treating dry skin includes therapeutically active concentrations of one or more skin protecting lipids in an oleaginous base. The skin protecting lipids can include a sphingolipid and at least one oil. The composition is intended for application on the skin surrounding the eyes. The composition is configured to form a protective, occlusive layer that can moisturize the skin and reduce inflammation and itching without stinging, burning, or stripping the skin. According to an exemplary embodiment, the composition is formulated as a high viscosity ointment or gel.